An Easy, Breezy Mexican Cantina in South Beach

Or “a great excuse to call in sick and spend some QT with a plate of tacos and tequila.”

Oh, hey. Here’s a nice little spot that can make that happen.

Tip your sombrero to Jalapeño Mexican Kitchen, a casual new joint with pork-stuffed tortas, icy
margaritas and a tropical patio to enjoy it all on, soft-open now and officially opening on Monday.
(See the slideshow here.)

Okay, let’s just get this out of the way: yes, it’s on Ocean Drive. But the guys behind this place (they
own Maya Tapas on Lincoln Road, incidentally) know how to navigate tourist-infested waters with some
finesse. So if anyone can pull off some beachfront tacos with longevity, it’s them.

And the scene here is pretty laid-back. Wood tables. Palms. Stained-glass candles and lamps. Also: it’s
all outdoors. So... layering should be kept to a bare minimum.

Which makes it a great option after a day spent lounging on the beach. A few margaritas, some guac made
tableside. Both great precursors to the torta stuffed with pork carnitas that is headed your way.